How to Spend 2 Amazing Weeks in Cambodia: Tips and Itinerary for Women 40+

Cambodia stole my heart the moment I stepped off the plane in Siem Reap. As a mature female solo traveler, I found this Cambodia itinerary offered the perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical discovery, and peaceful reflection. The Kingdom of Wonder, as it’s affectionately known, presents a unique opportunity for women over 40 to explore at their own pace, with a rich tapestry of experiences awaiting around every corner.

From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor to the serene beaches of the south, Cambodia welcomes solo female travelers over 40 with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. What makes this Cambodia itinerary particularly special is how it balances must-see attractions with off-the-beaten-path experiences, allowing you to connect deeply with the country’s soul.

My two-week journey through Cambodia revealed a nation rebuilding itself with remarkable resilience after a turbulent past. For women seeking meaningful travel experiences that combine adventure, cultural exchange, and personal growth, this Cambodia itinerary delivers on all fronts.

Before embarking on your Cambodia itinerary, proper preparation will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Cambodia has become increasingly accessible for solo female travelers, but understanding a few key aspects beforehand will make all the difference.

Timing your Cambodia itinerary correctly can significantly impact your experience. The country has two distinct seasons: dry (November to April) and rainy (May to October). For travelers over 40 seeking comfortable conditions, the dry season, particularly November to February, offers milder temperatures averaging 25-30°C. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies perfect for temple exploration and photography.

I visited in late November and found the weather ideal – warm but not oppressively hot, with refreshingly cool mornings perfect for early temple visits. The tourist crowds hadn’t yet reached their peak, allowing for more authentic interactions with locals and peaceful temple experiences.

The rainy season has its own charm with lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but be prepared for short, intense afternoon downpours that can temporarily disrupt your Cambodia itinerary. However, these typically clear quickly, leaving behind refreshed air and dramatic skies for photography.

Obtaining a visa for your Cambodia itinerary is straightforward. Most nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival at major entry points for approximately 30 USD (45 AUD, 28 EUR), requiring just a passport photo and your passport with at least six months validity.

Alternatively, apply online for an e-visa through the official government website before departure. This saved me considerable time at immigration, allowing me to bypass the visa-on-arrival queues. While slightly more expensive at 36 USD (51 AUD, 33 EUR), the convenience was worth every cent, especially after a long flight.

As a mature solo female traveler, I prioritised health preparations for my Cambodia itinerary. Visit your doctor at least six weeks before departure to discuss vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. Malaria risk varies by region and season, so consult with a travel medicine specialist about appropriate prophylaxis.

Pack a comprehensive medical kit including prescribed medications, diarrhoea treatment, rehydration salts, and strong insect repellent. Travel insurance is non-negotiable – ensure it covers emergency evacuation as medical facilities outside major cities are limited.

Safety-wise, Cambodia is generally welcoming for solo female travelers. Exercise the same common-sense precautions you would elsewhere: avoid isolated areas after dark, keep valuables secure, and trust your intuition. Throughout my trip, I experienced nothing but warmth and respect from locals, often finding extra assistance offered when needed.

Your Cambodia itinerary will take you through various environments requiring thoughtful packing. Lightweight, modest clothing is essential – think breathable fabrics that cover shoulders and knees for temple visits. I found convertible pants, light scarves, and quick-dry tops particularly versatile.

Comfortable walking shoes are crucial for temple exploration, while a pair of sandals works for everyday wear. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and quality sunglasses to protect against the tropical sun.

My Cambodia itinerary began in Siem Reap, the perfect introduction to the country’s rich cultural heritage. This charming city serves as the gateway to the incomparable Angkor Archaeological Park, home to hundreds of ancient temples dating back to the Khmer Empire.

Stepping off the plane, I was immediately embraced by Siem Reap’s warm air and warmer smiles. The new international airport is modern and well-organized, though it’s located about an hour from Siem Reap town center. Pre-arranging airport pickup through your hotel or airport shuttle booking platforms is essential, particularly given the distance and especially if arriving after dark.

I chose to stay in a boutique hotel near the Old Market area, offering the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. At 60-90 USD per night (85-128 AUD, 55-83 EUR), these accommodations provide comfortable rooms, swimming pools for afternoon cooling, and attentive service particularly appreciated by mature travelers.

After settling in, I took a gentle stroll along the Siem Reap River, orienting myself to the city’s layout. The evening brought me to Pub Street, where I enjoyed a traditional Khmer dinner of fish amok (curried fish in banana leaf) for just 6 USD (8.50 AUD, 5.50 EUR). While Pub Street can be lively, there are plenty of quieter restaurants on side streets offering authentic cuisine with a more relaxed atmosphere perfect for solo diners. If dining alone feels intimidating, our complete guide to eating alone confidently offers practical tips for enjoying every meal.

No Cambodia itinerary is complete without dedicating at least a full day to Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. Rising before dawn, I joined other travelers witnessing the unforgettable sunrise over Angkor Wat’s distinctive silhouette. As a mature traveler, I appreciated hiring a knowledgeable guide (approximately 35 USD/50 AUD/32 EUR for a full day) who adjusted our pace to avoid exhaustion while sharing fascinating insights about Khmer history and symbolism.

After exploring Angkor Wat‘s intricate bas-reliefs and climbing its steep central towers (a challenge worth the effort), we escaped the midday heat with lunch at a nearby restaurant. The afternoon brought us to Angkor Thom, entering through the impressive South Gate with its giant stone faces.

Inside, Bayon Temple captivated me with its 216 serene smiling faces, while the Terrace of the Elephants offered a glimpse into royal ceremonies of the past. As the day cooled, we explored Ta Prohm, famously featured in Tomb Raider, where massive tree roots embrace ancient stones in a hauntingly beautiful display of nature reclaiming human creation.

On my third day, I ventured beyond the main circuit to discover lesser-known temples in my Cambodia itinerary. Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women,” located about 25km from the main complex, showcases the most exquisite stone carvings in the region. Its smaller scale and pink sandstone hue create an intimate atmosphere that many mature travelers find particularly appealing.

In the afternoon, I visited Beng Mealea, a largely unrestored temple offering a more adventurous experience. Walking along wooden platforms through this jungle-swallowed structure, I felt like a true explorer discovering a forgotten world. With fewer tourists, these outlying temples provide peaceful spaces for contemplation and photography.

The evening offered a chance to experience Cambodian performing arts at Phare, The Cambodian Circus. Unlike traditional circuses, this social enterprise features talented young performers combining theater, music, dance, and acrobatics to tell Cambodian stories. Tickets range from 18-38 USD (26-54 AUD, 17-35 EUR), with proceeds supporting arts education for disadvantaged youth.

After two intensive days exploring Angkor’s magnificent temples, my final day in Siem Reap focused on a gentler pace of cultural discovery. I began with a visit to the Angkor National Museum (10 USD/14 AUD/9 EUR), which provided excellent context for everything I’d witnessed at the temple complex. The museum’s well-curated exhibits on Khmer civilization and Angkor’s history helped deepen my understanding of the archaeological wonders I’d just experienced.

The museum visit took about two hours, leaving the remainder of the day blissfully unscheduled. This downtime proved invaluable—I enjoyed a leisurely lunch at a local café, caught up on journaling about my temple experiences, and treated myself to a traditional Khmer massage to soothe muscles tired from temple climbing.

For mature travelers, this balance between active exploration and restful reflection creates the perfect conclusion to an Angkor adventure. Rather than rushing through additional activities, taking time to process and appreciate what you’ve seen allows the profound beauty of Cambodia’s ancient heritage to truly settle in your memory.

Leaving the well-trodden tourist path, my Cambodia itinerary continued to Battambang, the country’s second-largest city. Just a few hours from Siem Reap, Battambang offers a more authentic glimpse into Cambodian life with its French colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, and surrounding rural landscapes.

The journey to Battambang is an experience itself and takes about 3 hours from Siem Reap. I opted for a private taxi (approximately 50 USD/71 AUD/46 EUR) over the bus to allow stops at interesting villages and viewpoints along the way. Arriving by early afternoon, I settled into a restored colonial building turned boutique hotel in the riverfront area, costing around 40-60 USD per night (57-85 AUD, 37-55 EUR).

Battambang’s walkable center features well-preserved French colonial architecture alongside traditional Cambodian buildings. I spent the afternoon on a self-guided walking tour, camera in hand, capturing the atmospheric streetscapes and riverside scenes. As the day cooled, I enjoyed a sunset drink at one of the rooftop bars overlooking the Sangkae River, where fellow mature travelers often gather to share stories and travel tips.

Day six of my Cambodia itinerary began with a countryside tour by tuk-tuk (around 15-20 USD/21-28 AUD/14-18 EUR for a half-day). We visited local cottage industries where families produce rice paper, dried bananas, and rice wine using traditional methods passed down through generations. These intimate glimpses into rural Cambodian life offered authentic connections with locals away from touristy environments.

The afternoon brought the unique experience of riding the norry, or bamboo train. This ingenious transportation system consists of a bamboo platform on wheels powered by a small engine. Clicking along abandoned railway tracks through scenic countryside at 15km/hour provided a thrilling yet safe adventure perfect for the young-at-heart mature traveler. The ride costs approximately 10 USD (14 AUD, 9 EUR) and supports local operators.

The afternoon was dedicated to exploring Battambang’s thriving artisan scene and local markets. I wandered through the charming colonial streets, discovering boutique shops filled with beautiful handwoven textiles, traditional Khmer scarves, and contemporary Cambodian fashion. The local artisans were delighted to explain their techniques, from silk weaving to silver jewelry making.

Phsar Nat market proved particularly rewarding for authentic souvenirs—hand-carved wooden items, locally-made soaps with frangipani and lemongrass, and exquisite kramas (traditional checkered scarves) at incredibly reasonable prices. For mature travelers, this relaxed shopping experience offers meaningful cultural exchange without physical demands, plus the satisfaction of supporting local craftspeople directly.

Battambang’s reputation as Cambodia’s arts hub stems largely from Phare Ponleu Selpak, an arts school providing free education to disadvantaged youth. My morning visit to the campus revealed the transformative power of creative expression in a nation healing from historical trauma. Watching students practice circus skills, painting, and music reinforced the resilience of Cambodia’s younger generation.

In the afternoon, I explored Battambang’s emerging gallery scene, where contemporary artists tackle themes of memory, identity, and social change. Several galleries occupy restored colonial buildings, creating thought-provoking juxtapositions of historical architecture and forward-looking artistic expression.

The evening offered a performance at Phare Ponleu Selpak’s on-site circus, a smaller but equally impressive version of the Siem Reap show I’d enjoyed earlier. Attending both performances provided interesting comparison points in my Cambodia itinerary and doubled my contribution to this worthy social enterprise.

No Cambodia itinerary would be complete without experiencing Phnom Penh, the nation’s vibrant capital. This bustling city on the banks of the Mekong River blends tragic history, dynamic present, and hopeful future into a compelling destination for thoughtful mature travelers.

I traveled from Battambang to Phnom Penh by private taxi (approximately 80-100 USD/114-142 AUD/74-92 EUR), allowing flexibility to stop at interesting points along the six-hour journey. Arriving by late afternoon, I checked into a riverside hotel offering views of the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers.

After refreshing, I took a leisurely evening stroll along Sisowath Quay, the riverside promenade where locals and visitors gather as the day cools. Families picnic on mats, vendors sell snacks and cold drinks, and the setting sun paints the water gold. For dinner, I chose one of the many rooftop restaurants offering panoramic views alongside delicious Khmer cuisine.

Day nine of my Cambodia itinerary addressed the country’s devastating recent history. I hired a knowledgeable guide (approximately 25 USD/36 AUD/23 EUR) to visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields. These deeply moving sites document the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime.

As a mature traveler with life perspective, I found these visits profoundly affecting yet essential to understanding contemporary Cambodia. The audio guides available at both sites provide thorough, respectful explanations, allowing visitors to proceed at their own pace and take emotional breaks when needed.

The afternoon offered balance through beauty at the National Museum, housing the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture in a stunning traditional building. The peaceful courtyard garden provided space for reflection after the morning’s intensity. Nearby, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda showcase Cambodia’s royal heritage with their gleaming spires and elaborate decoration.

My final day in Phnom Penh celebrated the city’s dynamic present. I began at the art deco Central Market (Psar Thmei), navigating its orderly sections to find high-quality textiles, silver jewelry, and handicrafts. As a solo female traveler, I appreciated the market’s organized layout and relatively pressure-free shopping environment.

The afternoon featured a boat cruise on the Mekong River (around 20 USD/28 AUD/18 EUR for a shared two-hour trip). From the water, I gained new perspectives on riverside communities and fishing practices. Many mature travelers find these boat excursions particularly appealing, offering scenic experiences without physical exertion.

Evening brought me to Street 240, known for its ethical fashion boutiques, artisanal shops, and cafés with international standards. Here, social enterprises employ vulnerable women, supporting their economic independence while producing beautiful, contemporary designs inspired by traditional Cambodian aesthetics. Purchasing these meaningful souvenirs added purpose to my Cambodia itinerary.

The final segment of my Cambodia itinerary took me to the charming southern towns of Kampot and Kep. These delightful destinations offer the perfect conclusion to an adventure-filled journey, providing opportunities for relaxation in settings rich with colonial heritage and natural beauty.

From Phnom Penh, I traveled to Kampot by private taxi (approximately 45 USD/64 AUD/41 EUR), a comfortable journey of about three hours on well-maintained roads. This accessibility is particularly appealing for mature travelers seeking hassle-free transitions between destinations in their Cambodia itinerary.

Arriving in Kampot by early afternoon, I settled into a restored French colonial building turned boutique hotel along the Kampot River. Accommodations here range from 30-80 USD per night (43-114 AUD, 28-74 EUR), offering exceptional value with spacious rooms, river views, and often swimming pools perfect for afternoon cooling.

The remainder of the day unfolded at a leisurely pace. I strolled through Kampot’s atmospheric old town, admiring the faded grandeur of its colonial architecture painted in soft yellows and blues. The riverside promenade offered perfect views of fishing boats returning with their daily catch as the sun began to set. For dinner, I enjoyed fresh seafood at one of the riverside restaurants, where tables set directly along the water created a romantic setting even for solo dining.

Day twelve of my Cambodia itinerary explored Kampot’s famous culinary heritage. After a relaxed breakfast overlooking the river, I joined a half-day tour to a traditional pepper plantation (approximately 15 USD/21 AUD/14 EUR). Kampot pepper, with its protected geographical indication status, is considered among the world’s finest, prized by international chefs for its complex floral notes.

Walking through the organic plantation, I learned about the traditional cultivation methods passed down through generations. The passionate farm owner explained the differences between black, red, and white peppercorns – all from the same plant but harvested and processed differently. The tasting session afterward revealed subtle flavor profiles I’d never appreciated in everyday pepper. Many mature travelers particularly enjoy this sensory experience combining agricultural tradition with gourmet cuisine.

The afternoon brought a gentle cruise along the Kampot River (around 20 USD/28 AUD/18 EUR for a shared two-hour trip). As we glided past riverside villages and limestone karsts, our local guide shared stories of the area’s history and ecosystem. The boat paused at a floating platform where we could safely swim in the clean river waters – a refreshing experience on a warm afternoon. The cruise culminated with sunset views as fishermen cast their nets in the golden light.

On day thirteen, my Cambodia itinerary continued to nearby Kep, just 25 kilometers from Kampot. Rather than changing hotels, I arranged a day trip with a tuk-tuk driver (approximately 20 USD/28 AUD/18 EUR for the full day), allowing flexibility to explore at my own pace.

Kep’s primary attraction is undoubtedly its famous crab market, where the day’s fresh catch is prepared in open-air kitchens overlooking the sea. I indulged in the signature dish – fresh crab stir-fried with locally grown Kampot pepper – at one of the simple restaurants lining the waterfront. At about 10 USD (14 AUD, 9 EUR), this memorable meal epitomizes Cambodia’s emerging culinary scene.

After lunch, I explored Kep Beach, a modest but pleasant stretch of sand perfect for a gentle stroll. Unlike the more developed beaches in neighboring countries, Kep offers a genuine local experience where Cambodian families picnic alongside the handful of international visitors.

The afternoon brought a visit to Kep National Park, where well-marked walking trails wind through forested hillsides offering panoramic views over the Gulf of Thailand. The 8-kilometer circuit can be done in sections, allowing travelers of varying fitness levels to enjoy the natural setting. Throughout the walk, I encountered butterflies, bird life, and occasional monkeys in the trees overhead.

Before returning to Kampot, I stopped at the abandoned French hill station villas that dot Kep’s landscape. These atmospheric ruins, slowly being reclaimed by jungle, offered a haunting reminder of Cambodia’s complex colonial past and the upheavals of its recent history. For mature travelers with an interest in history, these crumbling mansions provide powerful subjects for photography and contemplation.

The final day of my Cambodia itinerary involved returning to Phnom Penh by private taxi from Kampot (approximately 45 USD/64 AUD/41 EUR) for my departure flight. I scheduled ample time for this journey, recognizing that transportation in Cambodia often runs on a more relaxed timetable than Western travelers might expect.

During the journey, I reflected on the profound impact of these two weeks. Cambodia had revealed itself as an ideal destination for mature solo female travelers – offering authentic cultural immersion, historical depth, natural beauty, and meaningful human connections. The warmth of Cambodian people, their resilience in rebuilding their nation, and their eagerness to share their culture created lasting impressions.

My Cambodia itinerary had struck the perfect balance between structured exploration and spontaneous discovery, between acknowledging tragic history and celebrating vibrant present. As a woman traveling solo in my later years, I found Cambodia offered both the security of established tourist infrastructure and the thrill of genuine adventure.

This two-week Cambodia itinerary offers mature solo female travelers a journey that transcends typical tourism. Cambodia’s unique blend of ancient wonders and contemporary resilience creates transformative travel experiences particularly resonant for women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.

The Khmer Empire’s architectural achievements at Angkor speak to human creativity across centuries, while the nation’s recovery from recent trauma demonstrates unmistakable courage. For women navigating midlife transitions – career changes, empty nests, relationship shifts, or simply seeking deeper meaning – Cambodia provides powerful metaphors and genuine perspective.

Throughout my journey, I encountered other solo female travelers in my age group, each pursuing her own path yet sharing the common language of independent exploration. These connections often developed into meaningful friendships continuing beyond the trip itself.

The perfect balance of this Cambodia itinerary – from the magnificent temples of Siem Reap to the artistic soul of Battambang, the historical depth of Phnom Penh, and the tranquil charm of Kampot and Kep – creates a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to this captivating country.

If you’re considering a solo adventure that combines cultural depth, historical significance, natural beauty, and genuine human connection, move Cambodia to the top of your list! This Cambodia itinerary offers the perfect framework for discovery while leaving room for the serendipitous moments that make solo travel so rewarding.

Take the first step – research flights, secure your visa, and prepare to be transformed by the Kingdom of Wonder. Your Cambodia itinerary awaits, promising experiences that will resonate long after you return home.